Wheel Bearing, Front - Clunking Noise
91saab02
CATEGORY
Suspension
SECTION PAGE
7 3
ISSUE CODE
03/91-0099 774
Subject: Front Wheel Bearing Noise
Application: 900 Models, 1981-
Varying surface tolerances, spot corrosion and insufficient grease can result in a clunking noise from the front wheel bearings during full steering lock while driving slowly (e.g., during parking maneuvers).
Modifications were introduced into production during the 1990 model year to help reduce the likelihood of this occurrence. These improvements included a different method of honing the bearing seat surface and a modified assembly procedure. To alleviate a complaint of this noise on 900 models, follow the procedure.
Service Procedure
1. Remove the steering knuckle housing.
Figure 1:
2. Remove the inner snap ring. Thoroughly clean the surfaces of the snap ring, snap ring groove in the steering knuckle and the bearing (Figure 1).
Figure 2:
3. Place the steering knuckle on a press and using the tools shown in Figure 2, press the bearing into contact with the outer snap ring.
Figure 3:
4. Place enough shims (see table) on the bearing to eliminate the space between the bearing surface and the snap ring groove (Figure 3).
Shims
Thickness (mm) Part Number
0.15 75 97 677
0.20 41 22 131
0.25 41 22 149
0.30 75 97 701
5. Lubricate the shims with oil to prevent corrosion.
6. Refit the inner snap ring, ensuring that it snaps properly into place in the groove.
7. Reinstall the steering knuckle housing.
8. Test drive the car to ensure that it is running properly.
9. Check that the clunking noise has been eliminated by driving slowly forward and backwards under full steering lock.
Warranty Information:
To be covered by warranty, an owner complaint must have been made and documented within the warranty period. For warranty claims, use Failure Coding 63111-40-9-01-03. Time Allowance is Labor Operation No. 77411, 77410, 77408, or 77409 depending on whether the car is model year up to '87 or'88 and later and whether or not one or both sides are involved.